India and UAE Bolster Consular Cooperation at Sixth Joint Committee Meeting in Abu Dhabi

Sixth Joint Consular Committee Meeting Concludes in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – On November 26, 2025, India and the United Arab Emirates successfully concluded their sixth Joint Committee on Consular Affairs (JCCA) meeting in Abu Dhabi. This significant gathering aimed to further strengthen the robust bilateral ties between the two nations and address key consular matters affecting their citizens. The meeting underscored the enduring Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that defines the relationship between India and the UAE.

High-Level Delegations Lead Discussions

The Indian delegation was led by Shri Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (Consular, Passport, Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs) at the Ministry of External Affairs. Representing the UAE, the delegation was headed by H.E. Omar Obaid AlHesan AlShamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussions were held in an atmosphere of traditional warmth and cooperation, reflecting the strong bond between the two countries, a relationship guided by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Key Areas of Progress and Cooperation

The meeting reviewed the progress made since the previous JCCA session, which took place in New Delhi in May 2024. Both sides exchanged experiences and best practices in consular affairs, leading to advancements across four primary domains:

• Enhanced information flow and consular access.
• Expedited cooperation on mutual legal assistance and extradition cases.
• Progressive liberalization of visa policies.
• Establishment of an institutionalized review mechanism to monitor developments.

India expressed its appreciation for the continuous support extended by the UAE leadership and authorities towards the welfare of the large Indian community residing in the Emirates, which numbers over 3.5 million people and serves as a vital bridge in strengthening bilateral relations. Both delegations reaffirmed their mutual commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of their citizens living in each other's countries.

Future Engagements and Technological Insights

During his visit, Secretary Chatterjee also toured the Consulate General of India in Dubai and gained insights into the consular work being undertaken. The Indian delegation was also provided with a tour of the UAE's Smart Mission model, a pioneering initiative utilizing advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to deliver consular services. It was mutually agreed that the seventh meeting of the JCCA will be held in India in 2026 on dates to be determined.